Category: Mold

When it comes to protecting foundations, some builders only factor in code compliance. They simply spray a tar/asphalt coating on the concrete foundation and proceed with backfilling. Problem is, this approach is short-sighted, leading to spray-on foundation protection issues. Easily damaged spray-on coatings may create vulnerabilities on numerous levels, including moisture leading to mold and air quality problems, […]

In this post, I want to show you some of the important details for installing DELTA®-VENT SA. I will walk through all the steps of installing the house wrap and then focus on what it takes to flash a window, using the DELTA® line of products from Dörken Systems Inc. Dörken is a German company […]

How to fix a leaky basement without digging a hole, adding an exterior drain, or re-landscaping One of the most difficult issues to deal with as a landlord or a homeowner is a leaking foundation or basement wall. You go through a whole bunch of stages, much like grief counseling. First is denial that […]

An airtight building enclosure is an important part of a modern building. Good airtightness can increase energy efficiency, improve durability, and allow greater control over occupant comfort and indoor air quality. Airtightness is achieved with an effective air barrier system that is carefully designed and detailed and then built and commissioned in the field. An […]

What does stucco and your concrete sidewalk have in common? A lot. Both are cement -based, both will soak up water, and both should generally last a VERY long time. However, the comparison breaks down because the sidewalk is on the ground, and the stucco is generally applied over a wood-framed house. This is where […]

The Situation: Proper foundation protection is critical to keeping basements dry. Deciding on a dimpled membrane for a foundation’s protection system is the right choice. Dimpled membranes have many advantages over other systems. In the words of Waterproof Magazine, “They can easily be installed over virtually any foundation type: poured concrete, concrete block (CMU), insulated […]

We’ve said it before, but it bears repeating: as much as 80 percent of premature building wear expenses are related to moisture in some way. That’s why it’s important to install moisture control methods and to make sure that your building envelope is kept intact and free of leaks. And in order to make the […]

It is an exciting time in a family’s life when they move into a newly constructed home. Unfortunately, when mold enters the home due to faulty construction or faulty product manufacture, the dream can turn into a litigation nightmare for all concerned. There are things about home builders sued over mold that might just surprise […]

Basements are known to have particular problems: they are often found to be damp, humid, and even occasionally flooded. Once moisture has intruded, it can be difficult to treat the problem. Moreover, these conditions make basements vulnerable to mold. Even common solutions, such as using a dehumidifier, can increase foundation issues and prolong the problem […]

Without proper ventilation and drainage, moisture can accumulate between the water-resistive barrier and siding of a building. A rainscreen separates the cladding from the building, allowing drainage and moisture evaporation. Ventilated rainscreens are a support system in the building envelope that separates the cladding from the building, allowing for proper ventilation and drainage. It does […]

Dörken delivers innovative, high performance air and moisture barriers for commercial and residential construction sold under the DELTA® brand name. A North American manufacturer based out of Beamsville, Ontario, Dörken Systems, Inc. is a subsidiary of Ewald Dörken AG, a leading European developer and manufacturer of waterproofing and drainage products sold worldwide. Dörken is known for delivering premium products while providing educational programs and full technical support. For more information, call 1-888-4DELTA4 (433-5824) or visit www.dorken.com.